NEWS
Dettori’s whip toss after Classic under review
Posted: Sunday, October 26, 2008 8:24 PM
FRANKIE DETTORI
Photo by Z/Amy Wallot
by Jeff Apel
Jockey Frankie Dettori’s post-race actions following his win aboard Raven’s Pass in the Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1) on Saturday are under review by track stewards working the Oak Tree at Santa Anita Park meeting, who could fine or suspend the European rider for throwing his whip in celebration.
Dettori tossed his whip high into the air shortly after Raven’s Pass earned a three-quarter-length victory in North America’s most lucrative race. Santa Anita steward Albert Christiansen said the whip did not strike any of the 12 Classic entrants as they galloped out past the finish. Track personnel quickly went onto the racing surface to retrieve the whip, which landed about 50 yards past the finish line.
Christiansen is not sure when Santa Anita stewards may reach a decision regarding any disciplinary action against Dettori.
“First time I’ve ever seen it,” Christiansen said. “Why would he throw a $100 whip away? To tell you the truth, I don’t know if he got it back or not.”
Stewards did fine Dettori $500 on Saturday for failing to fulfill his riding engagements. After guiding Raven’s Pass to victory in the Classic, the ninth race on the card, Dettori was scheduled to ride Master Daniel in the subsequent Damascus Stakes. Tyler Baze picked up the mount aboard Master Daniel and finished ninth.
Christiansen said stewards delayed post time for the Damascus to allow Dettori time to participate in ceremonies that took place following the Classic. He said emotions might have played a role in Dettori choosing not ride in the Damascus.
“He just was too excited would be a guess. He really didn’t say anything,” Christiansen said. “He accepted the fine I would say very graciously and left it at that.”
The Classic victory was one of two wins earned on the World Championships program by Dettori, a three-time champion jockey in Britain known for his flying dismounts that follow wins. Dettori also rode Donativum (GB) to a win in the Grey Goose Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf.
Jeff Apel is a Thoroughbred Times assistant daily news editor
